Process Intensification for Odor Removal in Composting Facilities

Composting is a method of waste management using biological degradation at aerobic condition. Although the process is one of the efficient and least expensive waste management options, nuisance odors emanating from waste processing facilities degrade the air quality of neighborhood. Odor compounds vary significantly depending on the type of wastes, process conditions and include bioaerosols, biomolecules, volatile organics, ammonia, and organic sulphur compounds. Of all the mitigation technologies available for odor control, adsorption on activated carbon or other highly active surfaces, and biofilter are most efficient. In this work, a process intensification using two technologies, namely adsorption and chemical oxidation will be attempted in a single unit for the removal of model odor compounds. The two adsorbents are prepared from waste materials namely petroleum coke and biochar. This collaboration will help the partnering company, Renewi Canada, to mitigate odor problems by augmenting their existing scrubber and biofilter technologies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mita Ray

Student:

Banafsheh Khavaran

Partner:

Renewi Canada

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Environmental industry

University:

Program: